Micronutrients

Micronutrients are those vitamins and minerals required in very small quantities in our bodies which are essential for a number of different functions, including growth and development. Despite requiring only trace amounts, micronutrient deficiencies are widespread, affecting approximately 2 billion people worldwide, the equivalent of a third of the world’s population.
 
Micronutrient deficiencies are commonly associated with chronic hunger, in addition to specific dietary deficits. The most common deficiencies in school-age children are due to lack of iron, vitamin A and iodine. Such deficiencies negatively impact on children’s physical growth and mental development leading to stunting, poor cognitive function and poor school performance. They also increase children’s susceptibility to infection by impairing immune function and in their severest form can lead to mental retardation (Iodine Deficiency Disorder), blindness (Vitamin A deficiency) or even death.

For more information on Micronutrients, search for articles in the Micronutrient Bibliography or visit Country Programmes on micronutrient supplementation, or contact the website team on pcd@imperial.ac.uk